Rebels of the vine: How Black Elephant Vintners is redefining South African wine

In the heart of the Franschhoek Valley, where tradition often rules the vine, a trio of unconventional winemakers is rewriting the rules, and having a lot of fun doing it. Born out of pure synchronicity, shared passions, and a few well-timed friendships, Black Elephant Vintners is the brainchild of Kevin Swart, Raymond Ndlovu, and Jacques Wentzel: three distinctly different personalities united by a sincere love for wine and a desire to shake up the industry.

Their mission? To strip away the pretension, break down the barriers, and bring real wine to real people.

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Dubbed the "rebel winemakers" of South Africa, Black Elephant Vintners isn’t just another boutique label. It's a full-bodied celebration of individuality, creativity, and authenticity. Their wines, ranging from bold reds to playful bubblies, are crafted with character and intention, always rooted in the unique terroir of Franschhoek but never bound by convention.

At the heart of BEV is a philosophy built on balance, body, mind, and soul. Jacques, the body, channels his deep knowledge of winemaking into wines you can see, feel, and taste. Kevin, the mind, fuels the innovation, bringing a restless, creative energy that constantly pushes boundaries. Raymond, the soul, connects the wines to the people who drink them, fostering a sense of community and celebration with every bottle shared.

Together, they’ve built a brand that resonates with wine lovers who don’t want the fluff or formality, just great wine with a story to match. From quirky labels and unexpected pairings to music-inspired releases and immersive tasting experiences, Black Elephant Vintners is as much about the vibe as it is about the vintage.

Their portfolio is intentionally diverse, crafted to suit a variety of palates, moods, and moments. Whether you're toasting a milestone, sharing a sunset, or just unwinding with friends, there’s a BEV bottle made for that occasion. And behind each one is the same ethos: wine should be accessible, honest, and most of all, fun.